Ripon

Situated in the borough of Harrogate, is the remarkable Cathedral City of Ripon. With its Medieval and Georgian buildings, bustling marketplace and rich cultural heritage, Ripon can offer its visitors an array of delightful sights and attractions all year round.
Ripon Cathedral has had over 1300 years of fascinating history, making it one of the oldest sites of continuous Christian worship in England. Today, the Cathedral is seen as the heart of the community, a vibrant centre for the proud locals, as well as attracting a deserved numbers of tourists. Ripon also boasts the World Heritage Site of Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal which features the largest Abbey ruins in the country as well as magnificent Georgian water gardens. The beautiful Ripon market square comes to life every Thursday with lively markets and also nightly at 9.00pm when there is a traditional wakeman ceremony. This ceremony is not to be missed, taking place under the 300 year old, 90ft tall obelisk – children and adults alike can delight at the sound of the horn blower! If you are travelling with children to Ripon, the Spa Gardens are a great day out for the family; try your hand at bowls, crazy golf and a variety of seasonal outdoor games.
For a day of class and elegance, visit Ripon Races – Yorkshire’s Garden Racecourse. With a variety of enclosures to suit every budget, both new and experienced race goers can feel at home at this prestigious and exciting location.There is also the Tastes of Yorkshire Festival held at Ripon Racecourse, where everything from gourmet markets to children’s workshops will you keep you and your family busy for the day.The festival this year will take place on Saturday 16th June.
Thrill seekers amongst visitors should try Lightwater Valley Theme Park, with 175 acres of excitement and adventure there is something for all the family including Europe’s longest roller coaster – 'The Ultimate'. Located just off the A61 Ripon has excellent road links to the A1(M).